An earthquake measuring 6.3 in magnitude struck northern Afghanistan near Mazar-e Sharif at approximately 20:30 GMT (01:00 local time). The US Geological Survey reported the earthquake occurred at a depth of 28 kilometers (17 miles) and warned of potential significant casualties and widespread damage.
Local reports indicate that there were minor injuries and superficial damages across all districts of Balkh province, where Mazar-e Sharif is located. A Taliban spokesman mentioned that most injuries were due to individuals falling from tall buildings while trying to escape the tremors. The city, which has a population exceeding 500,000, saw many residents fleeing to the streets as a precaution against potential building collapses.
A video shared by the Taliban spokesman appeared to show debris scattered at the Blue Mosque, a notable landmark in Mazar-e Sharif, which is believed to contain the tomb of the first Shia Imam. This site is significant for local pilgrims who visit for prayer and religious events.
This earthquake follows a previous tremor of 6.0 magnitude that occurred in Afghanistan’s eastern mountainous region in late August, resulting in over 1,000 fatalities. Afghanistan’s geological setting makes it particularly susceptible to earthquakes, given its position along several fault lines where the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates converge.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8jrw12d3edo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss